> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guides.d7networks.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guides.d7networks.com/whatsapp/types-of-whatsapp-templates.md).

# Types of WhatsApp Templates

### 1.**Custom Templates**

Custom templates allow you to tailor the message format to suit your specific needs. This type of template is versatile and can be used for a variety of messaging purposes, from promotional content to informational updates.

**Example:**

<figure><img src="/files/hfy8ONOk9RXf4lcxSY2p" alt="" width="188"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Features**:

* Fully customizable message content.
* Support for text, media, and interactive elements.
* Suitable for marketing, notifications, and more.

### **2. Carousel Templates**

Carousel templates are designed to display multiple items in a sliding format. This template is ideal for showcasing products, services, or multiple offers in a single message.

**Example:**

<figure><img src="/files/gx6zpNwBNaXXYP4HVSBg" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Features**:

* Interactive carousel format.
* Each card can contain images, text, and buttons.
* Engages users with visually appealing content.

### **3. Limited Time Offer (LTO) Templates**

LTO templates are crafted for time-sensitive promotional messages. These templates are perfect for flash sales, limited-time discounts, and other urgent offers.

<figure><img src="/files/6PPYEJohP2Lzvd2QxY5r" alt="" width="363"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Features**:

* Emphasises urgency with a focus on time-limited deals.
* Can include countdown timers or expiry information.
* Designed to drive immediate action from recipients.

### **4. Authentication Templates**

If your mobile app allows users to receive one-time passwords (OTPs) or verification codes via WhatsApp, you need to use an authentication template. Here's what you need to know:

Authentication templates include:

* **Fixed Text**: "Your verification code is \<VERIFICATION\_CODE>."
* **Optional Security Disclaimer**: "For your security, do not share this code."
* **Optional Expiration Warning**: "This code expires in \<NUM\_MINUTES> minutes."
* **Buttons**: One-tap autofill, copy code, or no button for zero-tap.

**Types of Authentication Templates**

1. **One-Tap Autofill Authentication Templates**:

<figure><img src="/files/Wg2HNWuFfCQUMmBtPjfO" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* **Description**: Users tap a button in WhatsApp that automatically fills the code in your app.
* **Best For**: Android users.

2. **Copy Code Authentication Templates**:

<figure><img src="/files/P8Q19GzoPY25SRKu5uGV" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* **Description**: Users tap a button to copy the code to the clipboard, then paste it into your app.
* **Best For**: All devices.

3. **Zero-Tap Authentication Templates**:

<figure><img src="/files/cg8XhR3Z3MKxJPa6aeh0" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* **Description**: The code is broadcasted to your app without the user leaving the app.
* **Best For**: Seamless user experience without switching apps.

**Best Practices**

* **Confirm User's Number**: Make sure the user's WhatsApp number is correct before sending codes.
* **Clear Communication**: Inform users that the code will be sent to their WhatsApp number.
* **Visibility**: Notify users when your app captures the code.

**Time-To-Live (TTL)**

* **Default TTL**: 10 minutes for new templates, but can be set between 60 and 600 seconds.
* **TTL Importance**: Ensure TTL matches your code's expiration time to avoid sending unusable codes.

### **5. Flow Templates**

Flow templates are designed to create interactive, step-by-step user journeys directly within WhatsApp. Instead of sending static messages, businesses can guide users through structured flows like forms, selections, or multi-step actions without leaving the chat.

These templates are ideal for creating seamless, app-like journeys directly inside WhatsApp.

<div align="center" data-with-frame="true"><figure><img src="/files/ug0EguJhbzT02TOh7uxP" alt="" width="188"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

**Features**:

* Guides users through structured flows with multiple screens or steps
* Supports fields like text input, dropdowns, radio buttons, checkboxes, and date pickers.
* Keeps users within WhatsApp, reducing friction and drop-offs.
* Enables real-time actions such as booking appointments, collecting leads.